West End star Anton's grateful for stage comeback

Anton, who lives in Canada Water, was inspired to organise the event after successfully battling cancer for two years. He had life saving surgery on a brain tumour in March, an experience that changed his life.

He said: "I came up with the idea when I was very ill. I thought if I ever get better I'll celebrate some of the people I've worked with over the years and raise money for charity at the same time.

"It will be a great show, with some of the best voices from the West End stage taking part. There's a 20-piece orchestra, a Gospel choir and stars from shows like Les Miserables and We Will Rock You.

"I want people to come along and feel inspired. This will be a celebration of life, so there won't be any boo-hoo songs."

The show will raise funds for the Intermission Youth Theatre, which uses drama to reach out to youngsters aged between 14-20.

Anton, 36, had a tough start to life. Born to a drug-addict mother, he was in care until being adopted at the age of six. His experiences made him determined to help out youngsters from difficult backgrounds.

He said: "I was lucky to be adopted, but a lot of kids aren't and they end up drawn into crime, drugs and prostitution. Intermission is great because it helps them develop through theatre and drama.

"Some of these kids can't read when they first come along, but they end up reading Shakespeare and really enjoying it. They are astounding kids and it's great to be able to help them. I want to show people there are positive things happening."

Anton's musical career began by accident, when he was discovered by Sir Cliff Richard.

He said: "I was working in a studio in Sussex and one day I was sitting at my desk singing along to my Walkman. Cliff was recording there and my singing was disturbing him. He came to complain but we started talking and I ended up doing backing vocals for him. It's all gone from there, really."

Anton went on to star in a string of West End musicals, including Porgy and Bess, until illness struck him down two years ago. He was told last Christmas that he might not survive.

He said: "That was a very dark and difficult time for me. The operation was so difficult I was told I might suffer brain damage. When I woke up I was blind, but I knew things would be okay. I've got great friends and family, and although I've felt isolated I never felt alone."

Those friends include Sting, Tina Turner and Elton John, who all rallied round during his illness. One of those big names will be on stage on September 12.

"I can't say who it is," said Anton. "But they will be there and it will be amazing. It will be a very emotional night for everyone, a real celebration, but there won't be a dry eye in the house."

For tickets to Grateful phone 020 7730 4500.